I've always wanted to schedule enough time to get a drink and some food before my flight at one of those airport restaurants designed to look like a pub or cafe. Even if the food might be overpriced, they always struck me as having a neat "liminal vibe" to them; sort of like what I feel when I see the painting Nighthawks.

It’s pretty awful imo. Going to a late night cafe or diner where you live will be a much better experience, and closer to nighthawks. But try it for yourself I guess.

OTOH, I have had pretty good, though expensive, food at some airports. Certainly not all of them have that option.